Description

This is not really worth the hike if you're seeking steepness.

If you are still determined, the climb is ~120' from the base of the ice to the top of the main bit. It tends to thin out and get hollow near the top. The second bit involves a few ramps of lower angle ice. There are no fixed anchors.

Location

Windy Saddle is a few miles up the Lookout Mountain Road, officially called Lariat Loop. The ice is a long way down below (~1600' by the map), on the west side of the parking lot. The flow is very well hidden and can't be seen from either the overlook or down on US 6. The easiest way to spot it is from the Stumbling Block, across the canyon. When the river is frozen, approach from below (~1000' gain). Otherwise, hiking down from Windy Saddle is possible but very strenuous.

Funny to see the Secret Waterfall "outed” – I’ve been going there most every year since 1979. Jay and I simul-soloed it in '79. I think it's solid WI 3.

Best approach is from above. Drop off the Beaver Brook trail at the rock outcropping well before the Secret Icefall drainage. Before the Beaver Brook Trail was in, we approached from below. Not too bad, but the river crossing can be dangerous.